Your Bosch washer stops mid-cycle, beeps, and throws a cryptic message on the display. In most cases, that code is actually good news: it narrows the problem down to one system (drain, door lock, heating, water intake) so you can troubleshoot safely and avoid unnecessary repairs. This guide explains bosch washing machine error codes in plain English, what typically causes them, and what you can try before calling service.
How to Read Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes Without Guesswork
Different Bosch series (Classixx, Logixx, Maxx, Serie 4/6/8) can show codes slightly differently (for example, E:xx, F:xx, or a combination like E:18). Still, the logic is similar: the washer detects a condition outside normal limits and stops to protect the machine.
Before you do anything else:
- Write down the exact code (including colons or leading zeros).
- Turn the washer off, wait 30 seconds, then turn it back on to see if the code returns.
- If there’s water inside the drum, don’t force the door—address draining first.
You’ll see many guides online for bosch washing machine error codes, but the safest approach is to start with the basic checks that match the system the code points to.
Safety First: What You Can Do vs. What You Shouldn’t
Safe DIY checks (usually):
- Cleaning the pump filter and checking the drain hose
- Verifying the water taps are open and inlet screens are not clogged
- Checking for kinks in hoses
- Reducing load size and redistributing laundry
Avoid unless you’re qualified:
- Opening the machine casing
- Testing heating elements, wiring, or control boards
- Bypassing door locks or sensors
If an error repeats after basic troubleshooting, treat it as a signal to stop and diagnose properly.
Common Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes
Below is a practical table of bosch washing machine error codes that appear frequently across many models. Exact wording can vary by series, but the underlying issue is usually consistent.
| Error code | What it typically means | Most common causes | What you can try (safe steps) |
|---|---|---|---|
| E18 / F18 | Drainage problem (water not pumping out) | Clogged pump filter, blocked drain hose, drain pump obstruction | Clean pump filter, check hose for kinks/blocks, ensure standpipe isn’t sealed airtight |
| E23 / F23 | AquaStop / leak detected | Water in base tray, leak in hose/pump, excessive foam | Unplug, check for visible leaks, reduce detergent, call service if base tray has water |
| E16 / F16 | Door not closed/locked | Door not fully shut, latch obstruction, door lock failure | Reclose firmly, check for laundry caught in seal, restart cycle |
| E17 / F17 | Water inflow too slow | Closed tap, clogged inlet screen, low water pressure | Open taps fully, clean inlet screens, verify hose isn’t kinked |
| E19 / F19 | Heating taking too long | Scale buildup, heater issue, temperature sensor fault | Run descaling maintenance cycle (if recommended), use correct temp settings; service if persistent |
| E20 / F20 | Heating error | Heater, wiring, control fault | Power cycle; if it returns, stop using hot cycles and contact service |
| E29 / F29 | No water flow detected | Tap off, inlet valve issue, pressure problem | Check taps/pressure, clean screens, try another inlet if available |
| E36 / F36 | Door lock problem | Lock mechanism or control issue | Power cycle, don’t force door; service if repeating |
| E67 / F67 | Control board / electronics | PCB fault, power surge, moisture | Unplug 5–10 min, try again; if persistent, service likely needed |
If you’re searching specifically for bosch washing machine error codes, this table helps you quickly map a code to the system involved and the first safe checks.
Step-by-Step Fixes for the Most Frequent Codes
1) Drain errors (often E18 / F18)
Drain-related bosch washing machine error codes are the #1 reason a washer stops with water inside.
Do this:
- Place towels + a shallow tray.
- Open the pump filter access (usually bottom front).
- Drain slowly, then remove lint, coins, hairpins.
- Check the impeller (it should spin with gentle resistance).
Pro tip: If this happens repeatedly, check pockets and reduce “fluffy” loads that shed fibers.
2) Water intake errors (often E17 / F17, E29 / F29)
When the washer can’t fill fast enough, it throws one of the intake-related bosch washing machine error codes.
Do this:
- Ensure both hot/cold taps (if used) are fully open.
- Unscrew the inlet hose and rinse the small mesh screens.
- Confirm the hose isn’t bent behind the machine.
If your home water pressure is low at certain times, try starting the cycle when pressure is normal.
3) Door lock errors (often E16 / F16, E36 / F36)
Door codes are common after overloading or when a small item gets trapped near the seal.
Do this:
- Remove some laundry if the drum is stuffed.
- Check the rubber gasket for socks or fabric edges.
- Close the door firmly and restart.
If the lock clicks but the code persists, it may be a lock/sensor issue.
4) Heating and temperature errors (often E19 / F19, E20 / F20)
Heating-related bosch washing machine error codes can appear if the machine can’t reach target temperature in time.
Do this:
- Run a manufacturer-approved maintenance/descaling cycle (if applicable to your model).
- Avoid very hard water buildup by using the right detergent dosage.
- If errors repeat on hot washes only, it’s likely a component fault.
Why Bosch Error Codes Keep Coming Back
If you clear a code and it returns quickly, the machine is detecting a real condition—usually:
- A recurring blockage (coins/lint in the pump area)
- Chronic low water pressure or clogged screens
- Over-foaming from too much detergent (especially in soft water)
- Intermittent door lock failure
- Scale affecting heating performance
A lot of people repeatedly Google bosch washing machine error codes and keep resetting the washer. If a code repeats, it’s better to address the root cause once than to risk pump damage or leaks.
When to Call a Technician
Stop troubleshooting and call service if:
- You see leak-related errors (like AquaStop indications) or water under the machine
- The washer trips the breaker or smells of burning
- Electronic/control codes persist (e.g., board-related)
- The drum won’t turn or makes loud grinding noises
Quick Checklist to Prevent Error Codes
- Clean the pump filter every 1–3 months (more often with pets).
- Use the correct detergent amount (HE detergent if required).
- Check and clean inlet screens twice a year.
- Run a maintenance wash periodically to reduce buildup.
- Don’t overload—leave space for laundry to tumble.